Lessons learned at Bridge Street School in Northampton, MA.
Need help getting your Walking School Bus started? Take a look at the successful program from Bridge Street School, which is a healthier and more environmentally sustainable alternative to taking a traditional bus.
The walking school bus was originally founded in the fall by a Bridge Street parent who sought to address the parking and traffic issues around the school during drop off and pick up times. The program runs every Monday through Friday in the morning and “bus drivers” pick up children to walk them to the school. Click here to read on.
When beginning a walking school bus, remember that the program can always grow. It often makes sense to start with a small bus and see how it works. Pick a single neighborhood that has a group of parents and children who are interested. It’s like a carpool—without the car—with the added benefits of exercise and visits with friends and neighbors. For an informal bus:
- Invite families who live nearby to walk.
- Pick a route and take a test walk.
- Decide how often the group will walk together.
- Have fun!
Click here for Walking School Bus basics.